Redskins' Jay Gruden has high praise for rookie running back Samaje Perine

Washington Redskins coach Jay Gruden was recently interviewed on ESPN 980 radio about the Redskins’ fourth-round draft pick, running back Samaje Perine out of the University of Oklahoma. The coach was very optimistic about the 5-10 rookie being integrated into the running attack in 2017.

“He had over 4,000 yards at Oklahoma which is pretty good,” Gruden said. “We interviewed him at the Combine. He has unbelievable focus [and] great character. You can just see the focus he has on the game . . . the details of playing the position.”

The Redskins had a stout backfield before drafting the rookie out of Norman, Oklahoma. Second-year running back and undrafted free agent Robert Kelley established himself as the leader of Washington’s ground game after starting nine games in 2016 and rushing for 704 yards and six touchdowns.

Perine, the No. 1 rushing yardage leader at Oklahoma (in the history of the University), is going to make the running back position one of the most interesting to watch during the Redskins’ upcoming training camp.

Maurice Hawkins

Maurice Hawkins is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communications & Journalism from Norfolk State University. Maurice served as a social media organizer for 2012 Barack Obama presidential campaign in the Commonwealth of Virginia. He provided social media consultation for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Maurice serves as one of the lead organizers of the #RedskinsTweetTeam.